Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 Review

The Real Deal Behind the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019

The world of reloading is one where precision and consistency are paramount. Every component, from the powder charge to the case length, plays a critical role in the performance and safety of a finished round. For the reloader dealing with .500 S&W Magnum, a caliber known for its substantial power, maintaining correct case dimensions is not just a matter of accuracy but also of crucial safety. This is precisely where the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 comes into play.

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across a wide array of demanding environments, I’ve developed a keen eye for tools that deliver on their promises. The primary reason I sought out this particular gauge was the need for a reliable and straightforward method to ensure my .500 S&W Magnum brass was within specification after repeated use. Reloaded brass, especially under the pressures generated by such a potent cartridge, can stretch and deform. Neglecting this can lead to headspace issues, inconsistent ignition, and potentially dangerous over-pressures.

Upon receiving the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019, my initial impression was one of practical simplicity. It arrived as a two-piece set: the case length gauge itself, essentially a precision-machined pilot, and its corresponding shell holder. The material, specified as hardened steel, felt robust in hand, devoid of any flimsy plastic components that can plague lesser tools. Its weight was minimal, fitting easily into my reloading bench organizer without adding clutter.

Before committing to this Lee offering, I briefly considered other brands, particularly those that might offer a more integrated setup or digital measurement capabilities. However, my experience has taught me that for many fundamental reloading tasks, elegant simplicity often trumps complex machinery. The lower price point of this Lee gauge also made it an easy decision for a tool that performs a single, critical function. My excitement was tempered with the professional’s curiosity – would this seemingly basic tool perform as reliably as its more elaborate counterparts?

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 to the Test

My first hands-on experience with the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 occurred on my reloading bench, amidst a batch of .500 S&W Magnum brass that had seen several cycles of firing and resizing. The setup was straightforward: the shell holder slips securely into my Lee press, and the case length gauge is inserted into the corresponding primer pocket hole on the gauge. The process is designed to mimic the actual firing dimension of the case, providing a direct measurement of its length against a fixed pilot.

I tested this setup under typical reloading conditions, which for me, involves a moderate level of dust and the occasional incidental contact with case lube. The hardened steel construction of the gauge and shell holder proved exceptionally resistant to minor scuffs or surface blemishes. There were no issues with stiffness or sticking; the gauge slid smoothly over the brass, and the shell holder held each piece of brass firmly in place.

Ease of use was immediate; there was no complex calibration or learning curve. The intuitive design allowed me to start measuring cases within minutes of unboxing. The only minor surprise was how quickly I became accustomed to the feel of the gauge, integrating it seamlessly into my workflow. It simply did what it was supposed to do without fuss.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds loaded with .500 S&W Magnum, the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 has held up remarkably well. Its primary function—measuring case length—remains consistently accurate. I haven’t noticed any discernible wear on the pilot, nor has the shell holder shown any signs of deformation or loosening grip on the cases.

Durability is a strong suit for this reloading accessory. The hardened steel resists the expected rigors of a reloading bench environment, including occasional drops onto the concrete floor (which, regrettably, have happened) without any damage or loss of functionality. Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after use is all that’s needed to keep it clean and ready for the next session.

When compared to the more expensive, integrated case trimming systems or digital calipers used for case measurement, this Lee gauge offers a different, yet equally valid, approach. While those might offer more features, the sheer simplicity and reliability of this gauge mean it rarely fails. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most basic tools are the most dependable.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is a specialized tool designed for a very specific purpose: accurately measuring the length of .500 S&W Magnum cases after they have been fired and resized. Its design is elegantly simple, focusing on functionality and durability.

Specifications

The core specifications of this product are straightforward and directly related to its intended function. The set includes a case length gauge and a shell holder, both specifically dimensioned for the .500 S&W Magnum caliber. The gauge is essentially a precision-machined pilot that fits into the primer pocket of the spent case, while the shell holder securely grips the rim of the case.

The material is specified as hardened steel, a crucial element for a tool that needs to withstand repeated contact and maintain its precise dimensions over time. This material choice contributes significantly to its perceived durability and resistance to wear. The quantity is listed as a 2-piece set, meaning you receive both the gauge and its corresponding shell holder, which are sold together as a matched unit.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The hardened steel ensures that the gauge won’t easily deform or wear down, guaranteeing consistent and accurate measurements for each case. The specific dimensioning for the .500 S&W Magnum caliber means it perfectly aligns with the case, providing a reliable gauge point for trimming. Unlike generic pilots, this ensures correct headspace when used with a case trimmer.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 excels at its primary job: providing an accurate and repeatable method for measuring case length. When a case is placed in the shell holder and the gauge is seated into its primer pocket, the extended portion of the case that protrudes is precisely the length that needs to be checked. If this extended portion is longer than the maximum allowable length, the case requires trimming.

Its main strength lies in its simplicity and accuracy. It takes the guesswork out of determining if a case is within acceptable trim-to length parameters. For reloaders who process large batches of brass, this tool significantly speeds up the process of identifying cases that need trimming.

A potential weakness, though minor, is that it requires a separate case trimmer to actually perform the trimming. This gauge only tells you if a case needs trimming; it does not perform the trim itself. However, for its price and intended function, this is a standard expectation.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is purely functional, with no embellishments. The hardened steel construction feels solid and dependable. The pilot portion is smoothly machined, ensuring it seats easily into the primer pocket without snagging.

Ergonomically, it’s straightforward. It fits perfectly into the shell holder, and the gauge itself is easy to grasp and manipulate during the measurement process. The markings on the gauge, if any, are subtle but sufficient for its purpose. There is no real learning curve; if you can insert a case into a shell holder and place a tool into a primer pocket, you can use this.

The shell holder design is standard, providing a secure and stable platform for the case. It’s designed to fit commonly used reloading presses, ensuring broad compatibility.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its hardened steel construction, the durability of the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is exceptional. Under normal reloading bench conditions, this tool is built to last a lifetime. Potential failure points are virtually non-existent, barring extreme misuse or deliberate damage.

Maintenance is minimal, bordering on nonexistent. A quick wipe-down to remove any residue is sufficient. There are no moving parts to lubricate, no delicate electronics to protect, and no complex assemblies to disassemble. This makes it an ideal tool for busy reloaders who want reliable equipment that doesn’t demand extra attention.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is a standalone tool and does not come with additional accessories. Its function is very specific to measuring case length. Customization options are also non-existent; the gauge is precisely manufactured for the .500 S&W Magnum caliber and cannot be altered.

It is, however, designed to work with standard reloading presses and accompanying shell holders. The shell holder itself is a crucial component that interfaces with the press. While Lee Precision offers a wide range of reloading components, this specific gauge and shell holder set is intended to be used as a matched pair for accurate case length verification.

Pros and Cons of Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019

Who Should Buy Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019?

This reloading accessory is an absolute must-have for any serious reloader who is shooting and reloading the .500 S&W Magnum cartridge. If you are someone who values precision, safety, and the longevity of your brass, this tool will be invaluable. It’s perfect for home reloaders who process their own brass after each firing session.

Those who should probably skip this particular gauge are individuals who do not reload the .500 S&W Magnum caliber. This tool is highly specific, and purchasing it for other calibers would be incorrect and ineffective. Additionally, reloaders who opt for fully automated or integrated case trimming systems that measure and trim simultaneously might find this a redundant step in their workflow, though even they might appreciate its accuracy for spot checks.

For those investing in this Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019, I highly recommend pairing it with a quality case trimmer designed for larger magnum calibers. A good caliper to measure the pilot itself (for comparison) and a sturdy case prep station will also enhance the overall efficiency of your reloading process.

Conclusion on Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019

The Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 is a prime example of how a seemingly simple tool can be an indispensable part of a complex process. For reloaders tackling the potent .500 S&W Magnum, ensuring correct case length is a cornerstone of safety and performance. This gauge, crafted from durable hardened steel and precisely engineered for its specific caliber, delivers exactly what it promises: reliable, accurate case length measurement.

Its value proposition is undeniable; for a modest price, you receive a tool that is built to last a lifetime and performs its critical function flawlessly. It streamlines the often tedious process of brass preparation, allowing reloaders to quickly identify cases that need attention. While it requires a companion tool for the actual trimming, its role in the workflow is crucial and exceptionally well-executed.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lee Gunsmith And Reloading Equipment 90019 to any reloader who handles .500 S&W Magnum brass. It’s a fundamental piece of equipment that should be standard on any bench dedicated to this powerful cartridge, providing peace of mind and ensuring consistent, safe reloads with every batch.